Banyan Tree

Acquired by new owners — it used to be the go-to backpacker destination, Boddhi Villa — they’ve kept the vibe, the Friday night parties, and the overall friendly atmosphere. if you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is not the spot. Parties, though, they can do.

The grass hut bungalows are simple but clean, while the main building, a shabbily beautiful affair, is basic, but also clean, with room for seven using a shared bathroom. The main dorm looks like it’s been renovated recently (as of February 2016), and has 20 solidly built bunks in a well-ventilated room, each with its own light and socket. The real treat is the floating bungalow, which at just $12 is a nice way to spend a night. The staff here are friendly, and as liable to join in the party as you are, if they’re not up on the stage jamming. There’s plenty of space for lounging, and the long bar looks like a great space for striking up long, winding conversations. The food gets good reports here as well. There's no free transport from the bus and taxi stand, so you'll have to pay to get out there, and it's a bit of a walk into town, so prepare to pay for rides or rent bicycles there for $1.50 per day.